Support Centre

How can I get more accurate GPS results? (Android)

Last Updated: Mar 08, 2019 02:31PM EST

Avenza Maps supports multiple location-based tools that require the use of precise GPS fixes. As Android operating systems update, battery and location optimization settings adopt different default states which can interfere with the type of location fixes your device receives. In this article, tools requiring GPS fixes are listed along with instructions for optimizing your device settings for use with Avenza Maps. This article was written primarily for devices using Android 8 and higher.

Tools that require GPS based location fixes:

Record GPS tracks

Navigate Map Features

If your device has location services disabled or set to a battery saving configuration, your device will only be receiving less precise, network or wifi based location fixes. As a result, you will be unable to use the previously listed tools.

Before changing device settings, confirm you have granted Avenza Maps location permission by performing the following

Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings shortcuts menu

In the Quick Settings menu, tap the cogwheel icon in the top right of the screen to open the main system settings menu

In the main system settings menu, scroll down and tap the ‘Apps’ setting to open a list of installed apps

Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings shortcuts menu

Swipe down again to display the full list of Quick Settings, your screen should look something like what is shown below​

Tap and hold on the location settings icon (circled in red) - this will open your device location settings page

In the Location settings page ensure the following

​​Location services are toggled ON

Location Method / Location Mode is set to High Accuracy*Your Location settings should now look something like what is shown below​

Close and reopen the app

Begin a new location-based activity (if you are navigating or tracking, you need to restart this tool for device settings to be applied)

In most cases, changing the location settings to High accuracy is enough for Avenza Maps to utilize high precision GPS fixes. If you are still experiencing difficulties with location-based tools, continue reading to adjust Battery Saving device settings.

Battery Optimization

Each Android device manufacturer has their own battery management settings so these steps have been generalized for all makes.

Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings shortcuts menu

In the Quick Settings menu, tap the cogwheel icon in the top right of the screen to open the main system settings menu

In the main system settings menu scroll to locate one of ‘Battery’ or ‘Device Maintenance’

In the battery settings menu, toggle OFF all battery optimization states

Close and reopen the app

Begin a new location-based activity (if you are navigating or tracking, you need to restart this tool for device settings to be applied)